A bit late but nevertheless, Happy New Year to all from tTech! As you refresh and reorganise for the year ahead, it’s time to streamline and deep clean your computer system to free up storage space and have it working at optimum.

Duplicate files, obsolete downloads, unwanted photos, videos and other digital files that are taking up storage space can be deleted or migrated to an external hard drive.

Here’s how to improve the performance of your systems and ensure that it stays that way.

Locate duplicate files

We tend to have duplicate files stored in different folders and it is recommended that these are deleted. Locating these files is as simple as downloading a suitable app. Some useful apps are Duplicate Cleaner, CCleaner and SearchmyFiles.

Download Folder and Applications

Clear your download folder of old files, this is a folder that consumes storage space as most files require download. Additionally, delete applications that you no longer use.

Storage in the Cloud

Photos and videos in your download folder that you want to keep can be stored in the cloud using Google Drive, Office 365 or Dropbox. You can also back up files to the cloud using these same tools.

Alternative predefined storage

If you are hesitant about utilising cloud storage, predefined folders are created for music, videos and documents, use them!

Importance of organising

As soon as you download a document, video or picture, it is best to organise and save them in assigned folders. This will routinely keep your download folder clear.

Computer vents

Similar to your refrigerator and other home appliances, all computers have vents that are made to prevent overheating and increase ventilation. Over time, these vents build up with dirt/dust and become clogged. This will cause overheating of the central processing unit and your computer will crash occasionally. To prevent this, use compressed air to clean the dirt out of the vents.

Computer cache

Your computer keeps a history of the websites you have visited and this is stored in the cache. It is recommended to clear the cache every quarter or your computer will reference the old site each time you visit that website.

Keep software updated

Always keep your software updated and do not ignore prompts to update. The more updated your computer is the more optimal it will perform.

Ultimately, with regular maintenance, reorganisation of your documents and a deep clean of your computer system, it will work at the highest level of efficiency.

Gillian Murray is the marketing officer at tTech Limited. She can be contacted at 656-8467/656-8448 or by email at